News

What is Safeguarding

Jul 14, 2023

Many children and young people take part in football activities almost every day across the country. Children play for fun, young people may participate for development programmes whilst others may be their chosen career path as athletes, coaches, administrators, referees, etc. Football as sport may be used as a vehicle for diverting youth from anti-social or criminal behaviour.

Safeguarding refers to the actions taken to ensure that children, young people and vulnerable adults are safe from harm when involved in football activities.

Child protection is an import part of safeguarding and it refers to set of activities that are required for specific children who are at risk or are suffering from harm.

Safeguarding ensures that everyone’s rights are respected regardless of their age, gender, race, sexuality, etc. Children also have the right to participate in football in a safe and enjoyable environment.

It has been noted that for the past years children and young people have been victims of all forms of violence. FIFA through their vision of globalising football made commitment to make sure that they promote sport is safe as an effort to protect human rights. One the cornerstone of the commitments was through the FIFA Guarding Safeguarding Program where it equipped its affiliated Member Associations with knowledge with expectation that they will prevent any form of harm to children and respond appropriately.

The aim of safeguarding is to;

Help create a safe sporting environment for children and young people whenever they participate in football
Provide clarity on safeguarding to all involved in football
Promote good practice and challenge poor practices that are harmful
Assist football leaders and funders to make informed decisions

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Setlhoko Appointed as FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert

FIFA has announced the appointment of Ms. Tsholofelo Setlhoko as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, joining a global network of qualified professionals dedicated to the growth and development of women’s football worldwide. This prestigious appointment recognizes Ms. Setlhoko’s exceptional contributions to the sport and her commitment to advancing women’s football across Botswana and beyond.

Launched in 2020, the FIFA Women’s Football Development Programmes have been instrumental in strengthening women’s football through targeted support for Member Associations. With the recent relaunch of the programme in December 2024, FIFA aims to expand its impact across all 211 Member Associations, offering tailored assistance that reflects the unique contexts and needs of each nation.

In her role as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert, Ms. Setlhoko will leverage her vast experience in football administration, strategic planning, and grassroots development to support Member Associations in implementing sustainable growth strategies. Her leadership within the Botswana Football Association (BFA), particularly in spearheading initiatives for women’s football, has set a benchmark for development and community engagement.

“I am deeply honored to be appointed as a FIFA Women’s Football Development Expert. This is not only a personal achievement but a victory for women’s football in Botswana. I look forward to sharing best practices and supporting the growth of women’s football in other Member Associations,” said Ms. Setlhoko.

The President of the Botswana Football Association, Mr. Tariq Babitseng, also expressed his pride in Ms. Setlhoko’s achievement, stating, “Tsholofelo’s appointment is a testament to her dedication and hard work. Her expertise and passion for women’s football are unmatched, and we are confident that she will make a substantial impact globally.”

Ms. Setlhoko’s appointment marks a significant step forward in the representation of African women in global football development. As she embarks on this journey, she remains committed to championing women’s football and inspiring the next generation of female athletes and administrators.